# Clever Class Poem explained — Poetry

> Chapter companion for Poetry by Ring Lardner.

## What happens

A nostalgic poem celebrating the Class of Nineteen-One, recounting the personalities and achievements of each classmate as they prepare to graduate.

## Themes in this chapter

### Nostalgia and Memory

The poem is a fond recollection of classmates and shared experiences, emphasizing the bittersweet nature of leaving school.

### Community and Companionship

The poem highlights the bonds formed among classmates, with companionship making up for the toil of learning.

## Character check-ins

### Unknown Narrator

The poet and narrator of the class poem, reflecting on the shared journey and bidding farewell to the class.

### Brother John

Mentioned as the last classmate, whose hopes lie in a corner grocery store.

## Key lines

> Up Learning’s ladder, round by round We’ve climbed with many a fall; But, through the toil, companionship Has made amends for all.

We have progressed through education with difficulties, but friendship has compensated for the hardships.

_Opening stanza celebrating the journey and camaraderie of the class._

> And now, I’ve mentioned everyone, I hope no one feels slighted, But if one does, let him approach, His wrong will soon be righted.

I have named all classmates; if anyone is offended, they can come forward to be corrected.

_Closing lines acknowledging the risk of omission and offering to make amends._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/clever-class-poem
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/poetry_19_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters